Glamping Adventure in Kazakhstan & Kyrgyzstan

Day 2: Medeu & Shymbulak

Start your day at the stunning Medeu Gorge, home to the world’s highest-altitude skating rink, perched at 1,691 meters (5,548 feet) above sea level. After taking in the breathtaking views, embark on a scenic cable car ride to Shymbulak Ski Resort, located at 2,200 meters (7,200 feet), where you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the towering mountains.

In the afternoon, enjoy free time to explore—whether it's heading to Kok-Tobe for a sunset or discovering Almaty’s food scene and nightlife. We’ll share our favorite spots and local recommendations, exclusively for our travelers, so you can experience the city like a local.

Day 3: Charyn Canyon

Our adventure continues as we hit the road, journeying across the vast steppes and mountains. We start the day with a quick stop at the supermarket to grab snacks for the road/picnic before heading east on a 4-5 hour drive to Charyn Canyon. Here, a 4 km hike takes us through towering red rock formations shaped by wind and time. After soaking in the breathtaking views, we continue to Saty village, a quiet retreat near the Kolsay Lakes. Settle in at Hotel KolSay Grand, where you can relax and recharge for the adventures ahead.

Day 4: Kolsay lake

Start the day with a morning walk to Kol-Sai Lake, nestled among lush forests and snow-capped peaks. Afterward, we cross into Kyrgyzstan via the Kegen border (110 km, 2-3 hours of driving). We stop for a picnic at Santash Rocks, just after crossing the border, with fresh ingredients picked up from Karkyra Bazaar before.

Day 4: Karakol

In the evening, once we’ve arrived in Karakol, meet a local Uyghur family for a Lagman cooking class, where you'll not only learn to prepare this flavorful dish but also hear fascinating stories about their ancestors, who migrated to Karakol and decided to settle here. Enjoy a traditional dinner with the family, sharing in their rich history and culture, before ending the night in a cozy glamping tent at Karakol Ski Base.

Day 5: Altyn-Arashan Gorge

After breakfast, embark on a unique ride in a Soviet UAZ truck to Altyn-Arashan Valley, located at 2500 m (8200 ft). Your adventure continues with a 1.5-2 hour hike to a remote paradise of hot springs surrounded by alpine beauty. Soak in the natural hot springs for 20-30 minutes per person before enjoying a picnic lunch at the gorge. Afterward, begin the return trip to Karakol, which will take around 2.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to unwind and enjoy the scenic journey. Upon returning to Karakol, savor a delicious dinner before settling in for the night in your cozy glamping tent at the base.

Day 6: Jeti-Oguz & Skazka Canyon

After breakfast, enjoy a city tour of Karakol (about 1 hour), including a visit to the One Village - One Product shop and a local bazaar. Then, we’ll head to the southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake, with a detour into the Jety Oguz Valley to see the famous red rock formations of "Seven Bulls" and "The Broken Heart." Our guide will share the fascinating legends behind these names. We’ll stop for a picnic lunch by the lake, with time for swimming (about 1.5–2 hours).

Next, we’ll visit the Skazka Canyon (about 1 hour), known for its surreal rock formations. Afterward, we’ll drive back to the main road and continue to Tamga. Here, you'll experience staying in traditional Kyrgyz yurts. Dinner will be served at the Yurt Camp, followed by an introduction to "Yr-Kese," a Kyrgyz singing competition. Enjoy the campfire, try your hand at the competition, and relax in this unique cultural experience.

Day 7: Eagle Hunting & Yurt Making

Witness an eagle hunting show in Jaichy, then visit Kyzyl-Tuu village to meet yurt-makers and see a demonstration of traditional Kyrgyz felting and craftsmanship. Continue to Chong-Kemin, where you’ll settle in for a relaxing evening at a guesthouse.

Day 8: Chong-Kemin

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the lodge, followed by a scenic horseback riding excursion. Spend the next 2-3 hours exploring the stunning landscape on horseback, taking in panoramic views of the surrounding nature (1600m; ~5,200ft). Afterward, return to the lodge for a delicious lunch. In the afternoon, continue your equestrian adventure with a traditional performance of Kyrgyz horse games, including Kok Boru (goat polo), Kyz-Kuumai, Tyiin Emei, Oodarysh, At Chabysh, and horse racing. End the day with a delightful dinner at the lodge and relax by the fireplace. 

Day 9: Burana Tower & Bishkek

After breakfast, we set off for Bishkek, stopping along the way to explore the historic Burana Tower—an 11th-century Silk Road relic. Upon arrival in Bishkek, enjoy some free time at the TSUM shopping center, where you can pick up souvenirs. As the day winds down, dive into the city's vibrant atmosphere—mingle with locals, soak in the energy of the streets, and cap off the night with a Bishkek nightlife experience, handpicked from our personal favorites.

Day 10: Bishkek

Wander through Osh Bazaar, then take a city tour covering the Frunze Monument, Ala-Too Square, and National Historic Museum. Stroll along Erkindik Boulevard, where Soviet-era architecture meets modern city life.